A joint venture between British biotech firm Oxitec and Australia’s CSIRO plans to release genetically engineered mosquitoes in the Torres Strait to combat mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, Zika, and yellow fever.
The project, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, involves releasing male mosquitoes with a self-limiting gene that prevents the survival of biting females.
Oxitec CEO Grey Frandsen emphasized collaboration with Indigenous communities. “We aim to not only protect lives, livelihoods, and biodiversity but also empower Indigenous communities to take the lead,” he said.
Despite support from Oxitec and CSIRO, critics have voiced concerns. Independent Queensland Senator Gerard Rennick opposed the trial, arguing, “Given there is next to no dengue fever in Australia, this proposed trial is completely unnecessary and risky.”
Oxitec has previously conducted trials in Brazil, Malaysia, Panama, and the US.
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator is reviewing the application.